Jarlath finished runner-up in both of his last two starts but aims to land the big prize in the two-mile five-furlong chase which will prove a test in the heavy conditions. Kevin Jones claims a useful five pounds off the back of Jarlath, second at Fontwell twice, on one occasion behind another of today’s rivals, Cody Wyoming, under Harry Bannister for Charlie Mann.

That 12-year-old won at the north Norfolk course in December while another regular Fakenham visitor, Princeton Royale, is in with a shout for Jack Andrews and trainer Neil King.

The Lycetts Farm and Estate Insurance Brokers Novice Chase at 2.10pm sees five tackle the two-mile course, headed by Nicky Henderson’s Rather Be, whose last outing resulted in him unseating jockey Jeremiah McGrath.

There are only four in the 3.50pm Lycetts Bloodstock Insurance Brokers Novice Handicap Hurdle and Calipso Collonges will be odds on for champion jockey Richard Johnson and trainer Olly Murphy. Murphy had a four-timer at the last Fakenham meeting and Calipso Collonges won on stable debut on Saturday at Uttoxeter, so has to defy a seven-pound penalty.

It could be another great day for Murphy. He and Johnson have Hurricane Rita in the 1.40pm opener, the grey mare having won at Fakenham in January although Akula and Yasir are dangers.

At 2.45pm Norfolk-based jockey Fergus Gregory rides Murphy’s Whiskey In The Jar, favourite for the novice hurdle having won last time at Uttoxeter. At 4.25pm it’s the annual William Bulwer Long Memorial Hunter Chase, favourite for which will be Foxcub under Emma Yardley while the card closes with the 4.55pm NH flat race in which five make debuts. Market leader will be Johnson’s mount Melekhov, trained by Philip Hobbs.

This newspaper has been a central part of community life for many years, through good times and bad, serving as your advocate and trusted source of local information. Our industry is facing testing times, which is why I’m asking for your support. Every single contribution will help us continue to produce award-winning local journalism that makes a measurable difference to our community.